Success Story: Carlton Construction

“Cabin in a Can” is Latest Idea from Port Tenant

Steve Carlton’s companies have been meeting construction and storage needs since 1986

(June 2016) – Some may see an empty shell, but in an unfilled container, Steve Carlton sees possibilities.

His latest creation—a 20 ft. container converted into a cozy cabin—was on display at the March KAT-FM Home & Garden Show in Lewiston. Carlton added amenities, a door and window. However, when the container door is shut, it looks like an unassuming metal box.

“The response was unbelievable; it was the hit of the show,” said Carlton. “You couldn’t get much more secure than a container. You could just roll your generator in when you left and lock it up.”

Carlton Containers offers containers for rent and sale, including containers converted to construction trailers and wired for heat, air, electricity, phone and Internet.

“We’ll modify any container,” said Carlton. “We’re pretty accommodating. If somebody needs something, if we can make it work, we’ll do it.”

Carlton Containers is a long-time tenant at the Port of Lewiston, where most containers are stored. Also, a container storage unit complex is located at the Carlton Construction office at 1103 Bryden Avenue. A new complex is going in near Peak Performance Physical Therapy on Bryden Ave.

Driving around the valley, it’s hard to miss containers with the Carlton logo at construction sites, businesses and events. The company has an inventory near 500.

Carlton Containers was a natural offshoot from Carlton Construction, which was founded in 1986 and is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.

Carlton said the company got its start in painting and sandblasting. Construction work grew from there. Today,

the company has 10 full and part-time employees and specializes in commercial and residential work, as well as fire and water restoration.

The container business started when Carlton received a request from a local company in need of containers. The only person he knew that rented and sold containers had moved away, so Carlton stepped in to fill the niche. The company also rents dumpsters.

Port of Lewiston Commissioners wish to congratulate Steve Carlton on his many years in business.

“You can always count on Steve Carlton to find solutions for construction companies, businesses and many others, which is important in keeping our economy moving forward,” said Port of Lewiston Commission President Mike Thomason. “We are proud to have Carlton Containers as a long-standing tenant and as a strong business colleague.”